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AUV System Spec Sheet

GhostSwimmer configuration

Platform: BIOswimmer
Developer: Boston Engineering
Manufacturer: Boston Engineering

Summary

Boston Engineering is developing the GhostSwimmer™ Autonomous Undersea Vehicles (AUV) based on the design of comparably sized biological systems (fish and cetaceans) for inspiration. There is a large body of experimental data that suggests oceanic biological systems achieve high propulsive efficiencies (to 87%), and have extraordinary abilities to maneuver at both high and low speeds, far in advance of any conventional man-made vehicle. They do so using a flexible, streamlined body propelled by a single oscillating tail foil, an appropriately placed set of pectoral (and auxiliary) fins and a finely tuned muscular/sensory/control system.

The GhostSwimmer™ strives to significantly advance UUV technology by modeling it after fish because they have already solved the propulsion and maneuverability problem that plagues UUVs. In a strictly engineering sense where speed, maneuverability and endurance are crucial to survival, fish are very close to an optimal design. The distinguishing factor between GhostSwimmer™ and other biomimetic systems is tactical relevance. This vehicle is built to be functional, useful, payload carrying, robust, user-friendly, and optimized for mission performance.

The GhostSwimmer Configuration is distinguished by the articulated caudal fin

The BIOswimmer configuration is distinguished by the thruster on the articulated caudal  fin. – See more at: http://auvac.org/platforms/view/263#sthash.f1SGJlhR.dpuf
The BIOswimmer configuration is distinguished by the thruster on the articulated caudal  fin. – See more at: http://auvac.org/platforms/view/263#sthash.f1SGJlhR.dpuf

Physical Specs

  • Platform: BIOswimmer Download PDF
  • Body Type: Biomimetic
  • Size (LxWxH): 1.52m x 0.36m x 0.46m
  • Body Size (LxWxH): 1.52m x 0.36m x 0.46m
  • Hull Material: Carbon Fiber
  • Weight: 40.80kg
  • Maximum Depth: 100.00 m
  • Dynamic Buoyancy: No
  • Self-Righting: Yes
  • Obstacle Avoidance: No
  • Endurance (nominal load): 14 hours
  • Manufacturer Website: Link

Primary Missions

  • Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance
  • Scientific Research
  • Vehicle Research
  • Inspection Maintenance and Repair

Propulsion System

  • Method: Thrusters
  • DOF: 6
  • Hovering: Yes
  • Nominal Speed: 2.00
  • Maximum Forward Speed: 2.57

Power System

  • Total Capacity: 0 Wh

Launch and Recovery

  • Hand Held